This authentic Russian Borscht Beet Soup is a traditional and comforting dish, bursting with flavor and a beautiful deep red color from the beets. Made with cabbage, potatoes, and beets simmered in a savory beef broth, this soup is hearty and satisfying. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a boil over medium heat.
Add diced potatoes and shredded cabbage to the pot and cook for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Using a food processor, shred the beets and add them to the pot along with the bay leaves, ketchup, and sugar.
Stir well and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot or cold, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and omit any added meat. The soup will still have a rich flavor from the beets and vegetables.
For a more vibrant color, use fresh beets rather than pickled ones. They will also add a slightly earthy flavor that enhances the soup’s authenticity.